Urban League and University Partnership
Means Jobs for Local Teens

The Urban League of Greater Cincinnati is coordinating an expanded Summer Youth Employment Program, and the University of Cincinnati is stepping up to lend a hand by finding work for up to 150 of the 3,000 Hamilton County teens participating in the program. The first day of work for many was Monday, June 11 when they were matched with departments and offices across the university.

We were very excited when we heard UC was going to participate," said Betty Atwater, director of the Urban League of Greater Cincinnati. "The campuses are near many neighborhoods we serve. It's a safe environment. Parents love that." In fact, Atwater said many parents of students in UC's Upward Bound academic program have already asked to be placed in jobs at UC this summer.

Two students employed at UC through the program are Christopher Chappell, 14, who will be a freshman this fall at Walnut Hills High School, and Beverly West, 15, who will be a junior this fall at Withrow High School. Both will work 20 hours a week in UC's public relations office covering news at the university for the UC Web site in addition to general office support work.

Beverly said she contacted the Urban League for work after several friends were successful in finding work through the league in years past. "It's not always easy to get a job at 15," she explained, adding that she hopes the work will add to her communication skills. Eventually, she wants to work as a computer technician or a pediatrician.

Christopher contacted the Urban League after seeing a flier at his school. He wanted a job that would help him reach future goals. He eventually wants to attend law school at UC to prepare for a career in corporate or tax law. Christopher hopes to become more computer-savvy and improve his writing skills while on the job at UC.

Alecia Trammer, director of UC Employment Services, said the benefits of working here extend far beyond the salary and on-the-job training.

"Kids need to have someone in front of them," said Trammer. "It's something to brighten their world, so they can experience a university environment. It will help broaden their interests and focus their goals on college."

Atwater agreed that the UC jobs are likely to have a long-term impact on the students hired. "There's such a need for this program in terms of a learning experience. They'll be in a university environment thinking 'This doesn't exclude me. I can do this.'"

More information on job opportunities is available at www.cycyouth.org or by contacting Clark Lucky at the Urban League at 513-487-6535.